New Illinois Traffic Law: The Ins and Outs of Making Right Turns at Red Lights

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Starting this year, Illinois drivers will need to adjust their habits when it comes to making right turns at red lights. A new traffic law, designed to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion, has been put into effect.

While many are familiar with the concept of making a right turn on red, there are a few important changes and clarifications that drivers need to know to avoid fines and ensure they are following the law correctly.

What’s New in Illinois’ Right-Turn-On-Red Law?

Under the previous law, drivers in Illinois could make a right turn at a red light unless there were signs explicitly prohibiting it. However, with the new legislation, the state has introduced stricter guidelines and exceptions that impact when and where you can make a right turn at a red light.

1. New Restrictions at Certain Intersections

One of the key changes in the new law is the implementation of additional restrictions at certain high-traffic intersections. In response to growing concerns about pedestrian safety and traffic congestion, Illinois has made it mandatory for some intersections to have No Right Turn on Red signs. These signs are typically placed in areas where high pedestrian traffic or other factors like poor visibility make it unsafe to turn right at red lights.

Drivers will need to be extra vigilant when approaching intersections to watch for these new signs. If you see one, you’ll need to stop and wait for the green light before proceeding.

2. Increased Focus on Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety

The new law also focuses on ensuring that pedestrians and cyclists are not put at risk by drivers making right turns on red. In certain busy urban areas or near schools, parks, and other pedestrian-heavy zones, right turns on red may be restricted to protect vulnerable road users.

If you’re in a zone that allows right turns at red lights, always be sure to come to a full stop, check for pedestrians and cyclists in crosswalks, and yield to them before making your turn. Failing to do so could result in hefty fines, and more importantly, it could lead to an accident.

3. Signal and Yield Requirements

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The updated Illinois law also emphasizes that when making a right turn on red, drivers must come to a complete stop and yield to both oncoming traffic and pedestrians. It is not enough to simply slow down or glance for traffic; a full stop is required. This ensures that other drivers, pedestrians, or cyclists have adequate time to clear the intersection before the turn is made.

In addition, some intersections may require drivers to signal their right turn before reaching the intersection. This rule has been clarified as part of the new law, and failure to signal properly could result in a traffic violation.

Exceptions to the Rule

As with many traffic laws, there are some notable exceptions that drivers should be aware of:

• No Turn on Red Signs: If you see a sign indicating “No Turn on Red,” you are prohibited from making a right turn at that intersection, regardless of whether the light is red or green.
• Red Light Cameras: Many Illinois cities have installed red light cameras to monitor compliance with traffic laws. When making a right turn on red, always ensure you stop completely and obey the traffic signals, as red light cameras will capture violations.
• Special Zones: Certain areas, especially near schools or hospitals, may have additional restrictions on right turns at red lights due to safety concerns. Always look for signs indicating such zones.

What This Means for Illinois Drivers

For Illinois residents, this new law is a reminder to stay cautious and aware of your surroundings when navigating intersections. It’s no longer enough to assume that a right turn at a red light is always allowed. You will need to watch for new signs and signals that might prohibit or restrict the maneuver, especially in urban areas or near high-traffic zones.

The Bottom Line

The changes to Illinois’ right-turn-on-red law are designed to enhance both traffic flow and safety. While the law still allows right turns at red lights in many cases, the new restrictions aim to address concerns about pedestrian safety, cyclist protection, and congestion in busy urban areas.

To avoid fines and accidents, drivers should be proactive in checking for signage, stopping fully at red lights, and yielding to pedestrians and cyclists when making right turns. By staying informed and cautious, Illinois drivers can help make the roads safer for everyone.

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